What to expect at your ignition interlock installation appointment

When you have to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your car, you need to help of a professional who knows how to install it properly. Each installer within the Intoxalock network is certified, so they know exactly how to install your IID.

When you contact Intoxalock, we can help you schedule your install appointment at the location closest to you — we have twice as many locations as other providers, offering customers more convenience. So, now that you have the appointment, what happens next?

You might wonder if you can drive your vehicle to the install appointment. If your driving privileges have been revoked, you will need to ask a friend for a ride. Once you’re at the service shop, you can expect your appointment to last one to two hours — time varies based on the make, model and year of your vehicle.

You can plan to either leave your vehicle or pick it up when installation is complete. Once the car breathalyzer is installed, the technician will help you with the following:

Teach you how to use the device. Intoxalock prides ourselves on making ignition interlock devices that are easy to use. Your installer will guide you through how to use the breathalyzer before you leave the shop. They will teach you how to turn on the device, how to blow into it and what type of blow pattern your state requires. Some states require one long breath into the device while others require a blow, inhale, blow pattern.

Provide certificate of installation. Some states require you to submit proof of installation of your interlock device. Intoxalock helps you meet your state’s laws. We provide a certificate of installation that you will either provide to your monitoring authority (court, Department of Motor Vehicles, Department of Transportation, court, etc.), or we will electronically notify the state of your installation. Call one of Intoxalock’s experts to understand your state’s requirements.

Explain what happens if your device locks out. A lock out is a state-mandated function that will not allow you to start your vehicle. If your breath alcohol content is above the legal limit when you attempt to blow into your ignition interlock, the device will prevent your vehicle from starting. Your installer will explain your state’s regulations on what to do in this situation.

Provide calibration and maintenance information. Car breathalyzer devices require routine maintenance to ensure they function properly. You will need to have the device calibrated every 30 to 90 days, depending on your state’s requirements, to download device data and check to see if it’s measuring alcohol levels accurately. Your installer will help you understand when you need your device calibrated, which can be done at the same service center in just a few minutes.

Supply extra mouthpieces. You might want to keep extra mouthpieces in your glove box. You can put a clean mouthpiece on your device after calibrations or every 30 days to ensure it’s sanitary. In addition, you can supply a clean mouthpiece if somebody else needs to use your vehicle while your ignition interlock device is installed.

Answer questions. Technicians want you to feel comfortable with the device before you leave the shop, so this is your chance to answer any questions about the device. You can walk through how to use it as many times as you need.

Mobile Installation

Some states allow mobile installation of car breathalyzers, allowing Intoxalock to come to the location that’s most convenient for you. Instead of driving to a service station, Intoxalock installers will come to your house or work to install the device. This convenient process can be easier for people who don’t have time to come to a service station, providing convenience when you’re looking to get back on the road. Call us to see if this an option for you.

Intoxalock understands that being charged with a drunk driving offense is time consuming and tricky. We make installation easy. Call us with any questions or to schedule an installation appointment.